A raider who threatened a York shop worker with a hammer in a ‘terrifying’ robbery has been jailed.
Tom Robinson, 28, went into the Co-op on Campleshon Road shortly before 8pm on Sunday 8 February.
He threatened a member of staff with a hammer, grabbing him by the jacket and pulling him towards the till area. He had then left on foot with hundreds of pounds in cash.
Officers went straight to the Co-op after the 999 call and reviewed CCTV, which showed the clothing worn by the suspect.
The local knowledge of response officer PC Sophie Riley led her to the home address of Tom Robinson – ten minutes’ walk away from the scene of the crime.
There, PC Riley and other officers found a quantity of cash and some clothing matching the CCTV footage. Within an hour the 28-year-old was arrested and in custody.
Forensic tests on the victim’s jacket later identified Robinson’s DNA on the left sleeve.
Robinson made no comment in interview. He was charged with robbery, and faced with the evidence, he pleaded guilty at York Crown Court on 26 May.
Today (Tuesday) a judge at the court jailed him for five years and two months. He was also ordered to forfeit a quantity of cash.
In a victim statement, the member of staff told the court: “On the night of the robbery, there was too much adrenaline to think about what happened.
“It was a first for me, I’ve never had anything like this happen before.
“I was in shock and numb to what had happened, but in the back of my mind I knew the incident was really going to impact me.
“I gave my statement to the police. On the surface I was acting normal, but underneath I could feel the panic was setting in, asking myself what just happened and why did it happen to me.
“It has impacted me a lot more than I thought it would. I believe I will remember what happened, and the feelings I had, for the rest of my life.”
After the sentencing hearing, DC Alex Dorlin, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Robinson subjected a member of staff who was simply doing his job to a terrifying ordeal.
“No one comes to work expecting to be threatened with a hammer. This case is a clear example of how – quite apart from the financial loss to businesses – the long-term emotional impact of retail crime can be devastating.
“An immediate and effective response by officers to the report meant we had the evidence we needed to secure a conviction, and ensure Robinson faces the consequences of his actions.”
